Take Your USA Baby Passport Photo in Only 3 Seconds

Read all about US baby passport photo requirements and create your children’s passport pictures comfortably from home.
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Baby Passport Photo—Technical details

Here’s a quick overview of all requirements for your photo
Size
2x2 in
Resolution
301 dpi
Background Color
Is it suitable for online submission?
Yes
Is it printable?
Yes

FAQ

How do I take my newborn's picture for US passport?

To capture a compliant US passport photo for your newborn: 1. Plain white background with even lighting and no shadows. 2. Full face visibility: Eyes open, facing the camera directly, with no obstructions (e.g., hats, pacifiers, or hands). 3. Neutral facial expression—no smiling, crying, or exaggerated gestures. 4. No external support: Hold the baby from behind a plain white sheet or car seat cover; avoid visible hands/arms. 5. Technical specs: 2x2 inches (51x51 mm), printed on matte/glossy photo paper, with the head measuring 1-1⅜ inches (25-35 mm) from chin to crown. For guaranteed acceptance, use our AI-powered tool to auto-crop, adjust lighting, and validate compliance with U.S. Department of State guidelines.

How do they take a baby photo for a passport?

To ensure a compliant infant passport photo: 1. Use diffused natural lighting to eliminate shadows/glare while maintaining neutral skin tones4. 2. Position baby front-facing with eyes open (closed eyes permissible under 6 months) against plain white/off-white background. 3. Frame head height between 1-1.375 inches (25-35mm) from hair crown to chin base. 4. Remove hats/pacifiers, ensuring full facial visibility without support objects. 5. For stability, photograph lying on white bedding or in car seat covered with white fabric.

What should a baby wear in a passport photo?

For infant passport photos, dress the child in solid-colored clothing that contrasts with a white/off-white background. Avoid patterns, hoods, or headwear (except for religious/medical reasons). Ensure the face is fully visible with eyes open and neutral expression. Plain outfits without logos or accessories (e.g., pacifiers, hats, or hairbands) comply with international guidelines.

Can my baby cry in passport photo?

Infant passport photos require the child's face to be fully visible with eyes open and mouth closed. While neutral expressions are ideal, minor facial movements are generally acceptable for infants. However, photos showing extreme crying or laughter may be rejected per international guidelines. Ensure no other person is visible, including hands supporting the baby from behind.

How soon can a newborn get a passport in USA?

U.S. regulations prohibit applying for a passport before birth. Newborns may receive a passport as soon as parents complete the application process, which requires both parents/guardians to appear in person with required documents (birth certificate, parental ID, passport photo). Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks, while expedited service reduces this to 2-3 weeks (additional fees apply). Processing times may vary during peak seasons.

How strict are baby passport photos?

Infant passport photos must adhere to stringent guidelines to ensure compliance with international standards. Key requirements include: 1. Recency: Captured within the last 6 months to accurately represent the child’s current appearance. 2. Background: Plain white or off-white backdrop without shadows, patterns, or textures. 3. Positioning: Full-face view with the baby’s head centered, eyes open, and directly facing the camera. Supportive props (e.g., car seats) may be used discreetly if necessary. 4. Expression: Neutral facial expression; closed mouths and natural eye contact are mandatory. 5. Quality: High-resolution, unedited images with no red-eye, headwear (unless medically necessary), or distracting objects. For seamless approval, ensure dimensions align with official specifications (e.g., 2x2 inches for U.S. passports). Professional studios specializing in passport photos are recommended for precision35.

Does baby need to be awake for a passport photo?

Yes, infants under 12 months may have closed eyes in passport photos per international guidelines. Sleeping babies do not need to be awakened, as partial or full eye closure is permissible. For older children, eyes must be fully open and visible. Always confirm country-specific regulations with your local passport authority to avoid processing delays.

What is the format for a baby passport photo?

A compliant baby passport photo must adhere to the following specifications: 1. Dimensions: 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), with the head measuring 1–1.4 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to crown. 2. Background: Solid white or off-white, free from shadows, patterns, or textures. 3. Recency: Taken within the last 6 months to reflect the child’s current appearance. 4. Composition: Full-face view with eyes open, neutral expression, and no other visible individuals or objects. The child should face the camera directly, supported if needed (e.g., lying on a white blanket for infants). 5. Quality: High-resolution, sharp focus, and evenly lit with natural skin tones. For infants, slight deviations (e.g., closed eyes or tilted head) are often permissible under most government guidelines, provided facial features remain clearly visible. Always verify country-specific requirements for exceptions.

Can a baby smile in a passport photo?

While neutral expressions are generally required, infants under 1 year may have relaxed standards: natural facial expressions (including partial eye closure) and slightly open mouths are acceptable provided facial features remain fully visible. However, the photo must maintain a front-facing orientation with both eyes discernible and no obstructions. We recommend using professional infant passport photography services to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.